You’ve seen “double oak” on more and more bourbon labels, but not all of these bottles are created equal. The basic idea is simple: aging the spirit in a second new barrel. Yet, the results can be dramatically different. The type of wood, the finishing time, and the initial bourbon’s character all create a unique final taste. So, how do you find your perfect bottle? We’re comparing popular mainstays with innovative craft spirits in this double oak bourbon review. We’ll break down what makes each one special and help you decide which truly deserves a spot on your shelf.
Key Takeaways
- A Second Barrel Creates Unmatched Complexity: Double oak bourbon is aged twice, with the second barrel adding deep layers of flavor and a smoother finish that you can’t get from a standard single-barrel process.
- Look for Rich, Dessert-Like Flavors: This style is known for its inviting notes of toasted marshmallow, deep caramel, and vanilla, making it a complex yet incredibly approachable choice for both new and seasoned bourbon drinkers.
- It’s Made for Sipping and Cocktails: The bold, balanced profile of double oak bourbon makes it incredibly versatile. Enjoy it neat to appreciate its craftsmanship, or use it to create a richer, more flavorful Old Fashioned.
What Makes a Bourbon ‘Double Oaked’?
If you’ve ever wondered what makes a bourbon exceptionally rich and complex, the answer might be a second barrel. Double Oak Bourbon is a style of whiskey that goes through a unique, two-step aging process. It starts its life like any other bourbon, aging in a new charred oak barrel. But instead of being bottled after that first maturation, it’s moved into a second, brand-new charred oak barrel for a final finishing period.
This second round of aging is where the magic happens. It allows the spirit to interact with fresh wood, pulling out deeper, sweeter, and more intense flavors that you wouldn’t get from a single barrel. Think of it as adding a second coat of paint—it deepens the color and adds a whole new layer of dimension. This meticulous process is what gives a Double Oaked bourbon its signature character, transforming a great bourbon into something truly unforgettable. It’s a testament to the craft, showing how patience and a little extra effort can create an incredible result. For whiskey lovers who appreciate a strong oak presence and a symphony of layered flavors, this style is a must-try, offering a sipping experience that is both robust and remarkably smooth.
How the Double Barrel Process Works
The process of double barrel aging is a deliberate art form designed to build layers of flavor. After the bourbon completes its initial aging, it’s carefully transferred to a second barrel. This isn’t just any barrel; it’s specifically prepared to impart a different set of characteristics. This second aging period, which can last for around a year, allows the whiskey to soak up even more of the wood’s rich compounds. It’s an intimate dance between the spirit and the oak, where the extra time coaxes out notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, creating a profile that is both powerful and beautifully balanced.
Toasted vs. Charred: What’s the Difference?
When we talk about the second barrel, it’s important to understand that it’s not just a repeat of the first. The key difference often lies in the treatment of the wood. While the first barrel is heavily charred, the second barrel is typically deeply toasted before receiving a light char. Toasting is a slower, lower-heat process that caramelizes the sugars in the wood, bringing out sweet, delicate notes of vanilla and baking spice. The charring that follows creates a layer that filters the spirit while adding classic smoky notes. This specific combination of toasting and charring is what creates such a unique and complex flavor profile in the final product.
The Role of the Mash Bill
Before a bourbon ever touches a barrel, its flavor journey begins with the mash bill—the grain recipe that serves as its foundation. Think of it as the spirit’s DNA. By law, bourbon must contain at least 51% corn, which provides its signature sweetness. The other grains, known as the “flavoring grains,” are where distillers get creative. A high-rye mash bill will introduce spicy, peppery notes, while using wheat creates a softer, gentler profile. This initial recipe is crucial because the double oaking process doesn’t create flavors from scratch; it amplifies what’s already there. For example, our Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel is a wheated bourbon, and that soft wheat base allows the rich, dessert-like notes from the second barrel—like vanilla and caramel—to shine through without being overshadowed by intense spice.
Proof and Its Impact on Flavor
Proof, or the alcohol by volume, is much more than just a number on the label; it’s a critical decision that shapes the entire tasting experience. A higher proof often means a more concentrated and robust flavor profile, as less water has been added to dilute the spirit after it leaves the barrel. However, finding the right proof is a balancing act. Too high, and the alcohol heat can overwhelm the subtle complexities; too low, and the rich flavors can taste muted. We bottle our Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel at 107 proof because we believe it’s the sweet spot. It’s bold enough to carry the deep, layered notes from its time in two barrels, yet it remains incredibly smooth and approachable, making it perfect for sipping neat or as the backbone of a memorable cocktail.
Why Two Barrels Create More Flavor
So, what’s the payoff for all this extra work? An incredibly deep and complex flavor. The first barrel gives the bourbon its foundational notes of caramel and spice. The second, toasted-and-charred barrel builds on that foundation, adding layers of dark chocolate, toasted marshmallow, dried fruit, and rich oak. This process results in a bourbon with a velvety texture and a long, warm finish. The dual-barrel process creates a harmony of flavors that you just can’t achieve with a single barrel, offering a sipping experience that is both familiar and excitingly different. It’s a perfect example of how craftsmanship can shape the very soul of a spirit.
What Does Double Oak Bourbon Taste Like?
So, what exactly happens in that second barrel to create such a sought-after flavor? Double oaking isn’t just about adding more oakiness; it’s a process of transformation. It takes the foundational notes of a great bourbon and deepens them, adding layers of complexity, sweetness, and spice that you won’t find in a standard single-barrel spirit. The result is a bourbon that feels both familiar and entirely new—a richer, more decadent version of a classic.
Tasting a double oak bourbon is a full sensory experience. It starts with the aroma, moves to the complex flavors on your palate, and ends with a long, satisfying finish. Each step reveals a different facet of the spirit’s character, a direct result of its extended time interacting with charred oak. To truly appreciate it, you have to pay attention to how the notes evolve from start to finish. Let’s walk through the typical tasting profile of a quality double oak bourbon.
First Impressions: What to Expect on the Nose
Before you even take a sip, the aroma of a double oak bourbon tells a story. The first thing you’ll likely notice is a sophisticated blend of aged, charred oak and a hint of rich leather. But give it a moment, and sweeter, more delicate scents begin to emerge. Think of warm cinnamon syrup, vanilla bean, and juicy raisins. The most distinct note for many is a comforting, nostalgic smell of toasted marshmallow, the kind you’d get from a campfire. This beautiful balance of robust oak and dessert-like sweetness is the first sign that you’re about to taste something special.
The First Sip: Unpacking the Flavor Profile
When you take your first sip, the flavors deliver on the promise of the aroma. The taste often starts with that familiar aged oak and leather, but it’s quickly joined by a wave of rich, sweet notes. Many people find the experience reminiscent of a s’more, with layers of chocolate, vanilla, and graham cracker mingling with a touch of smoke and cinnamon. You’ll also find deep caramel and hints of dark fruits like dried raisins or plums, all balanced by a gentle rye spice that keeps the sweetness from becoming overwhelming. It’s this intricate dance of flavors that makes each sip a new discovery.
How It Finishes: A Long, Spicy Warmth
The final act of a great double oak bourbon is its finish. This isn’t a spirit that disappears the moment you swallow. Instead, it leaves a medium-to-long, warming presence. The finish is where the oak and barrel char really shine, accompanied by notes of burnt caramel and spiced raisin. You might also detect a hint of tobacco or the lingering sweetness of a freshly baked cinnamon roll. It’s a dry, spicy, and incredibly satisfying conclusion that invites you back for another sip, letting you appreciate the full depth of its character.
The Difference a Second Barrel Makes
What makes this complex flavor profile possible? It all comes down to that second barrel. By moving a fully matured straight bourbon into a second, newly charred oak barrel for additional aging, distillers create a much richer spirit. This finishing process amplifies the vanilla, caramel, and spice notes while smoothing out any harsh edges. This technique, once a novel experiment, has proven so successful that it has inspired many distilleries to create their own double-barreled products. It’s a testament to how thoughtful craftsmanship can transform a standard bourbon into a standout, luxurious experience, much like the innovative spirits found in the Mary Dowling whiskey collection.
How Do Double Oak Bourbons Compare?
When you’re exploring the world of double oaked bourbons, two names often come up: Mary Dowling and Woodford Reserve. Both offer a richer, more complex experience than their single-barrel counterparts, but they get there in different ways. Understanding these differences is key to finding the one that best suits your palate. Let’s break down how these two premium bourbons stack up in a head-to-head comparison, where they fit in the market, and whether they justify their price.
A Side-by-Side Taste Test: Mary Dowling vs. Woodford Reserve
The core difference between these two bourbons is the finishing process. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked moves from a standard charred oak barrel to a second, deeply toasted and lightly charred barrel for nearly a year, which imparts rich, sweet oak notes. Mary Dowling’s Double Oak Barrel also uses a two-barrel process, but it’s engineered to create a uniquely smooth and layered profile. Our award-winning whiskeys honor a legacy of innovation, and this method is key. While both are complex, a review of Mary Dowling often points to its exceptional smoothness and inviting character.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked Profile
Woodford Reserve’s approach is a masterclass in precision. Their Double Oaked bourbon is aged in a second barrel that has been deeply toasted before a light charring. This specific treatment coaxes out soft, sweet oak flavors that define its character. On the nose, you’ll find a rich mix of dark fruit, caramel, and honey, with hints of chocolate and toasted oak. The first sip is full-bodied and complex, delivering a delicious blend of vanilla, dark caramel, and hazelnut, all balanced by notes of apple and spice. It’s a classic, well-regarded example of the style and a benchmark for many bourbon lovers.
Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel Profile
Drawing from a legacy of resilience and ingenuity, the Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel is crafted with its own unique vision. While it also employs a two-barrel aging process, the method is engineered to produce an exceptionally smooth and deeply layered profile that stands on its own. This bourbon is a tribute to its namesake, Mary Dowling, a woman who defied convention to create incredible spirits. The result is a whiskey that is both bold and approachable, with a character that reflects a story of perseverance. It offers a sophisticated sipping experience that is rich, inviting, and a true testament to meticulous craftsmanship.
Exploring Other Notable Double Oaked Bourbons
The double oak category has expanded well beyond a few flagship brands, with many distilleries putting their unique spin on the two-barrel process. This is great news for bourbon fans, as it means there’s a wider spectrum of flavors to explore. From historic distilleries to innovative craft producers, each brand brings something different to the table, whether it’s a unique mash bill, a specific barrel treatment, or a different finishing time. Getting to know these other players can help you appreciate the nuances of the style and find a bottle that perfectly matches your taste. Here are a few other noteworthy double oaked bourbons that are making a name for themselves.
Old Forester 1910
As part of its Whiskey Row Series, Old Forester 1910 pays homage to a historic fire in 1910 that forced the distillery to store its bourbon in a second, new barrel. This “happy accident” created a bourbon with a remarkably dessert-like profile. On the nose, you’ll get a clear note of vanilla bean, which leads into a viscous, rich palate of toasty marshmallow. The finish is long and satisfying, with notes of charred oak and vanilla cola rounding out a truly luxurious sip. It’s a fantastic example of how a second barreling can create a smooth, sweet, and incredibly memorable bourbon.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Toasted
Elijah Craig takes the double oak concept and turns up the intensity with its Barrel Proof Toasted expression. This bourbon is known for its rich and decadent profile, starting with a nose of crème brûlée that immediately draws you in. The palate is silky and viscous, delivering a wave of flavor that evolves into a finish where toasted oak shines through, complemented by notes of cherry cola and vanilla cream. It’s a bold and complex whiskey that showcases how a toasted barrel finish can add layers of sweetness and depth, making it a favorite among those who love a high-proof, flavorful pour.
Jim Beam Double Oak
Jim Beam brings its accessible and classic style to the double oak category with a bourbon that is both rich and bold. This expression is aged twice in new American charred oak barrels, a process that intensifies the flavors and adds a new layer of complexity. The result is a spirit with a strong character of spicy oak, beautifully balanced by smooth, sweet caramel notes. It’s a straightforward yet satisfying take on the style, offering a deeper and more intense experience than the standard Jim Beam White Label, making it a great choice for cocktails or easy sipping.
Peerless Double Oak
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. has earned a reputation for its high-quality, craft approach, and its Double Oak bourbon is no exception. This spirit is known for its creamy, full-bodied sweetness that feels incredibly well-integrated. The nose opens with a delightful scent of toasted marshmallow, leading to a silky palate. The finish is where it truly stands out, with charred oak notes that are beautifully balanced by a complex vanilla sweetness. It’s a sophisticated and well-crafted bourbon that demonstrates how a second barrel can create a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying flavor profile.
Hard Truth Double Oaked Sweet Mash Bourbon
Hard Truth Distilling Co. offers a unique take on the style with its Double Oaked Sweet Mash Bourbon. Unlike most bourbons that use a sour mash process, this one starts as a small-batch sweet mash bourbon, which gives it a distinctively clean and grain-forward foundation. It’s then finished in a second, custom-charred barrel, which adds layers of complexity and richness. This process results in a bourbon that is both robust and nuanced, showcasing the sweet, earthy character of the mash bill alongside deep notes of oak, caramel, and spice. It’s a great choice for those looking to explore a different side of double oaked bourbon.
Starlight Double Oaked
From the Huber family’s Starlight Distillery in Indiana, this double oaked bourbon is a standout craft spirit. It’s known for its vibrant and well-balanced flavor profile that leans into fruity notes. The nose is often described as having a distinct cherry cola aroma, which carries through to the palate. While it has a lighter viscosity than some other double oaked bourbons, it’s packed with flavor, featuring notes of cherry vanilla. The finish is where the oak comes through fully, creating a beautiful balance with the lingering cherry notes. It’s a testament to how craft distillers are innovating within the category.
Awards and Recognition in the Category
The double oak bourbon category isn’t just a favorite among enthusiasts; it’s also critically acclaimed. These spirits consistently receive high praise and top honors at major industry competitions, cementing their status as a premium, high-quality style. For example, Woodford Reserve Double Oaked earned a prestigious Double Gold medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a significant achievement that speaks to its exceptional craftsmanship and flavor. This level of recognition is common across the category, with many double oaked expressions from both large and craft distilleries earning medals and high scores from critics. This consistent acclaim highlights the skill and artistry required to perfect the two-barrel aging process.
This widespread recognition does more than just add a shiny sticker to a bottle; it validates the entire style as a legitimate and exciting frontier in American whiskey. When you choose a double oaked bourbon, you’re often selecting a spirit that has been judged by experts and found to be among the best. It’s a testament to the distillers who have pushed the boundaries of traditional bourbon making to create something richer and more complex. This commitment to excellence and innovation is a value we hold dear, inspired by the trailblazing spirit of our namesake. The awards are simply confirmation of what discerning drinkers already know: double oaking creates a truly special bourbon worth seeking out.
Are They Considered Top-Shelf Bourbons?
Both bourbons sit comfortably in the premium market. Woodford’s Double Oaked is a popular step up from its standard bottle, though some critics at Breaking Bourbon note it’s an “average value” for the price. It’s a reliable, accessible choice for a double oaked experience. Mary Dowling is positioned for the drinker seeking a unique flavor backed by a powerful story. It appeals to those who value meticulous craftsmanship and a spirit that defies convention. It’s not just about a second barrel; it’s about a legacy that makes each bottle a conversation piece.
Is It Worth the Price Tag?
Price is always part of the conversation. Woodford Reserve Double Oaked retails around $60, a premium for its extra aging step, making it a solid choice for a special occasion. With Mary Dowling, the price reflects the double barrel process, the heritage, and the meticulous care in every batch. It’s an investment in a distinct tasting experience. When you buy a bottle, you’re connecting with the story of the Mother of Bourbon. For those who value both exceptional taste and a rich narrative, the value is clear.
The Best Ways to Drink Double Oak Bourbon
One of the best things about a truly great bourbon is its versatility. A complex, double-oaked spirit has so much to offer, whether you’re a purist who sips it neat or a creative mixologist. The rich, layered flavors developed through its unique aging process make it a fantastic foundation for all kinds of drinks. The key is to find the preparation that you enjoy most. Here are a few of my favorite ways to savor every drop.
Should You Drink It Neat or On the Rocks?
To fully appreciate the craftsmanship behind a double oak bourbon, your first taste should be simple. Pouring it neat—with no ice or mixers—allows you to experience the full spectrum of aromas and flavors, from toasted marshmallow on the nose to that long, spicy finish. If you want to soften it just a bit, add a single, large ice cube. This will chill the spirit and slowly release water, which can open up new layers of flavor without over-diluting it. As many bourbon lovers will tell you, it’s a versatile spirit that shines on its own. When you explore our whiskeys, this is the perfect way to get acquainted with their unique character.
Proper Glassware and Tasting Techniques
To truly get the most out of your bourbon, the glass you use matters more than you might think. While any glass will hold your whiskey, the right glass is designed to enhance the experience. A Glencairn or a snifter-style glass, with its wide bowl and narrow rim, is perfect for this. The shape helps concentrate the complex aromas, funneling them directly to your nose so you can pick up on all those subtle notes of vanilla, oak, and spice before you even take a sip. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference, allowing the spirit’s character to fully express itself and turning a simple drink into a true tasting session.
Once you have your glass, the tasting process itself is a sensory journey. Start by observing the color, then give the glass a gentle swirl to release its aromas. Bring it to your nose and inhale slowly—what do you smell? Take a small first sip and let it coat your entire palate, a technique some call the “Kentucky Chew.” This allows you to detect the full range of flavors, from the initial sweetness to the mid-palate spice and oak. After you swallow, pay attention to the finish—the lingering warmth and taste. For a different perspective, add a single drop of water. This can sometimes open up the bourbon, softening the alcohol and revealing new, more delicate notes that were hiding.
Upgrade Your Classics with Double Oak Bourbon
While delicious on its own, the robust character of double oak bourbon makes it a standout in classic cocktails. Its deep notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice can hold their own against other ingredients, adding incredible depth. The Old Fashioned is a perfect example. The bourbon’s inherent sweetness from the corn mash and extra time in the barrel means it pairs beautifully with a sugar cube and a few dashes of bitters. A recipe like the Double Oak Old Fashioned shows how the spirit’s complexity elevates a simple, timeless drink. The result is a cocktail that’s both familiar and remarkably rich.
Creative Cocktail Recipes to Try at Home
Ready to experiment? Double oak’s bold profile is a fantastic playground for more creative cocktails. For something bright and refreshing, try a Double Oak Whiskey Smash. This drink balances the bourbon’s “toffee-caramel flavor and oaky vanilla notes” with the acidity of fresh citrus and mint, making it an ideal choice for a warm afternoon. If you’re hosting a gathering, a large-batch punch is always a crowd-pleaser. A recipe like Malcom Reed’s Royal Oak Punch, which combines double-oaked bourbon with apple cider and lemon juice, creates a festive and flavorful drink that lets the spirit’s character shine through.
The Best Simple Mixers for Your Bourbon
You don’t need a fully stocked bar to make a great drink. Sometimes, a simple highball is all you need. The key is to choose a mixer that complements the bourbon rather than masking it. A high-quality ginger ale or spicy ginger beer can highlight the warm, spicy notes in the whiskey, creating a perfectly balanced drink. Club soda with a squeeze of lemon or lime is another excellent choice, as it adds effervescence without getting in the way of the bourbon’s flavor. When you’re ready to experiment, you can buy a bottle online and discover your perfect simple pairing.
Is Double Oak Bourbon Right for You?
So, you’ve learned about the double barrel process and how it creates those deep, rich flavors. Now comes the most important question: is a bottle of double oak bourbon the right addition to your home bar? This style isn’t just about a unique aging method; it’s about a specific taste experience. It’s for the drinker who craves more complexity, a smoother finish, and a story in every sip. Let’s break down who this bourbon is for and whether it fits your palate and your budget.
Who Will Love Double Oak Bourbon?
If you’re just starting your bourbon journey, a double oak can be a fantastic guide. It’s often approachable yet packed with the rich, sweet flavors of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak that many people look for in a quality whiskey. For seasoned enthusiasts, it offers a consistently satisfying and well-rounded profile that never disappoints. This style is perfect for anyone who appreciates meticulous craftsmanship and wants a bourbon that feels both classic and a little bit special. It’s a reliable choice for a weeknight pour but special enough to share with good company.
What’s the Buzz? Reviews from Drinkers and Critics
The consensus on double oak bourbon is overwhelmingly positive. It’s often described by reviewers as a consistently good and satisfying drink that delivers a richer experience than many standard bourbons. While the core expressions from respected distilleries are praised for their quality and balance, some critics note that certain limited-edition versions can come with an absurdly high price tag that doesn’t always match the value. Overall, the style is celebrated for its ability to deliver a dependably delicious and complex sip, making it a trusted favorite among many whiskey lovers.
Where to Buy Double Oak Bourbon (And What to Pay)
One of the best things about double oak bourbon is its versatility. It’s robust enough to be enjoyed neat or with a single large ice cube, but its sweet and spicy notes also make it a fantastic base for classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan. You can find excellent examples of this style, including our own Mary Dowling Double Oak Barrel, at most well-stocked liquor stores. If you’re looking for a specific bottle, you can always use our store locator to find a retailer near you. Expect to pay a bit more than you would for a standard bourbon, but the added complexity is well worth it.
The Final Verdict: Is It a Good Value?
When it comes to value, double oak bourbon punches above its weight. The process of using a second barrel adds time and cost to production, which is reflected in the price. However, what you get in return is a bourbon with significantly more depth, smoothness, and character. For many drinkers, the upgrade in flavor is more than worth the extra expense. It’s an investment in a more refined and memorable drinking experience. If you appreciate a bourbon that tells a story of patience and craft, then a double oak offers excellent value for the quality in your glass.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the main difference between a double oak and a regular bourbon? Think of it as the difference between a single coat of paint and a second, finishing coat. A regular bourbon gets all its flavor from one new charred oak barrel. A double oak bourbon completes that first aging process and is then moved into a second new barrel. This extra step doesn’t just make it older; it transforms the flavor, adding deeper layers of sweetness, spice, and complexity that you can’t get from a single barrel alone.
Does aging in a second barrel just make the bourbon taste like wood? That’s a great question, and the answer is no. The goal isn’t to make it taste overwhelmingly oaky. The second barrel is often heavily toasted before it’s charred, which caramelizes the sugars in the wood. This process brings out rich, sweet notes like vanilla, caramel, and dark chocolate, creating a beautifully balanced and smooth profile rather than a sharp, woody one. It’s all about adding depth, not just woodiness.
Is “double oaked” the same thing as “double barreled” or “twice barreled”? Yes, for the most part, these terms are used interchangeably within the whiskey world. They all refer to the same innovative process of aging a spirit in two separate, new charred oak barrels. Different distilleries might prefer one term over another for their marketing, but the craft behind the name is the same.
Is a double oak bourbon a good choice for someone new to whiskey? Absolutely. In fact, it can be a fantastic starting point. The double barrel process often smooths out any harshness and amplifies those delicious, dessert-like flavors of vanilla, caramel, and toasted marshmallow. This makes the bourbon incredibly approachable and easy to sip, offering a rich, flavorful experience without being overwhelming.
What’s the best way to start drinking a double oak bourbon to really appreciate it? To get a true sense of its character, I always recommend starting simple. Pour a small amount neat in a glass and let it sit for a minute. This allows you to take in all the complex aromas before you even take a sip. If you prefer it chilled, add a single large ice cube, which will cool the spirit down without diluting it too quickly. This is the best way to appreciate the craftsmanship before you decide to mix it in a cocktail.
Justin Pakdaman is the Marketing Director for Mary Dowling Whiskey Co., where he leads brand storytelling, digital strategy, and consumer engagement. Justin has years of experience building premium spirits brands.